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Photo = Yonhap news |
[Alpha Biz= Paul Lee] Coway has filed a lawsuit against Cuckoo Homesys, claiming that the latter infringed on the design of its ice water purifier. The suit seeks a ban on sales of the allegedly infringing product, along with compensation for damages.
According to industry sources on Sunday, Coway argues that Cuckoo Homesys’ "Zero 100 Slim Ice Water Purifier" violates the intellectual property rights of its own "Icon Ice Water Purifier."
Coway launched the Icon Ice Water Purifier in June 2022, promoting its compact size and angular design. Cuckoo Homesys released the Zero 100 Slim model in April 2023.
Coway claims the Cuckoo product mimics specific design features of its own model, including the combination of two rectangular cuboids for the top and bottom units, the length of the edges, and the arrangement of front-facing buttons and display. The company argues that the overall aesthetic perceived by consumers is nearly identical.
Coway alleges that the design infringement constitutes an act of unfair competition under the Unfair Competition Prevention and Trade Secret Protection Act.
Back in August 2023, Coway had sent Cuckoo Homesys a cease-and-desist letter and a formal warning notice over the same issue, citing design and patent infringement.
This lawsuit follows similar legal actions taken by Coway last year, including one against Kyowon Wells and a warning issued to Chungho Nice, signaling an escalating legal battle within the water purifier industry over design imitation.
Alphabiz Reporter Paul Lee(hoondork1977@alphabiz.co.kr)
